Former Southend United and Braintree Town midfielder Alex Woodyard leaves Dartford to sign for Concord Rangers

Midfielder Alex Woodyard has turned down the chance to stay at Dartford and signed instead for Concord Rangers.

The 21-year-old was invited by Darts boss Tony Burman to join the squad for pre-season training and earn himself a new deal at Princes Park, with the same offer extended to defender Mat Mitchel-King and striker Mikel Suarez.

But Woodyard, who joined Dartford last summer after impressing on trial, has opted to play Conference South football for the Canvey Island-based club in 2014-15.

Speaking a couple of weeks ago, Burman said: "Alex was a little bit frustrated last season because he wasn't in the side. That happens. He knows the situation and if he doesn't find himself another club, he's more than welcome to come back."

Woodyard, a former Southend United player, started 30 games for Dartford and came off the bench 12 times. His only goal for the club came in the Kent Senior Cup against Welling.